David Bernsen opens office in East Montgomery County

Cynthia Calvert

Published 7:00 pm, Tuesday, July 23, 2002

State Senator David Bernsen kept a promise last Thursday afternoon. He officiated at the ribbon cutting of his new senatorial office. Elected in 1997, he promised voters then he would open an office in the eastern portion of his district. While a temporary one opened months ago, the ribbon was cut last week on gleaming, new offices in the East Montgomery County Improvement District building just past Community Drive adjacent to New Caney High School.

More than 100 people gathered for the old-fashioned political rally. Flags, patriotic songs, a high school band, performers, twirlers and Boy Scouts, not to mention many electred officials, were all part of the event which harkened back to the "good old days" when politicians' speeches were regarded as community touchstones. What went almost unspoken was the reality that Bernsen will not be the senator much longer.

Bernsen is running for Texas Land Commissioner. Some months ago, his district lines were reconfigured after the Texas Legislature crafted a new outline for voting boundaries. The "new" Senate District 4 has a majority of Republicans, a fact which forced Democrat Bernsen to seek a different office.

He, his wife Dinah, and son Cade arrived in New Caney exhausted from more than two weeks straight of campaigning. Both the Senator and his wife commented separately, "This is a big state." Bernsen is opposed by Jerry Patterson and Porter insurance agent Mike Smith is seeking Bernsen's spot. Smith, although enthusiastically endorsed by Bernsen, is facing a tough race Nov. 5 against Republican Tommy Williams of The Woodlands.

No one really spoke aloud about the impending land commissioner race - this was an event for Senator Bernsen - but state Representative Ruben Hope strode purposefully to the center of the room to remind folks to vote in November. Fellow Senator Dan Ellis was more specific. "David Bernsen had an even hand. He paid close attention to all sides of the issues and always voted his conscience. We will miss him in the Senate."

Bernsen provoked the crowd into a hearty laugh by saying, "Listen, this isn't a funeral. This is a party."

Walter Kahler, pastor of the United Baptist Church, praised the crowd, saying he was proud to see so many people who still believe America is under God.

Inspiring dance was performed by the Texas Star Steppers, under the directon of Miss Rhonda and her School of Dance and Twirl. Sherry Wetz, newly appointed district director for Bernsen, led the applause for the dancers while remarking that they had only three days to practice for the evening. The troupe included ******.

Singer Jessica Glover was accompanied by pianist Jesse Spradley and performed 'God Bless the USA." The pair's performance was roundly applauded.

Commanding attention was the New Caney High School Band Ensemble who performed the National Anthem and later continued with several patriotic songs as cake, punch and cookies were served.

Frank McCrady, CEO of EMCID, made some brief remarks, pointing out that some may perceive the new EMCID building is the result of ad valorem taxes. "This building was built through sales taxes. Your support of local businesses built this."

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Bernsen seemed sentimental as he said, "It has been humbling to be your senator, to be a participant in history. As a friend recently told me, we are all part of each other's histories. You and I are bonded through this moment. Today will be part of my history and part of your history. Thank you for the honor to be with you.